By: Scott Jackson, YawkeyTalkies Staff Writer
Times may be tough for the Patriots.  But at least they’re not the Steelers.  The defending champs likely won’t make they playoffs after dropping four straight, including losses to Oakland and Kansas City.  Always look on the bright side of life.
Quarterbacks:
Tom Terrific had two touchdowns and 277 before morphing into Tom Terrible, throwing two interceptions down the stretch.  His stats would’ve been better had Sam Aiken been able to hold onto two deep throws.  But that’s the risk you run when throwing to Sam Aiken.
My grade: C

Running backs:
Laurence Maroney averaged 3.2 yards per attempt on 13 carries.  Designated short yardage back Sammy Morris couldn’t deliver on fourth and one.  As I’ve said on my radio show, the Pats inability to run the ball when teams expect the run (aka New England has the lead and tries to run out the clock) is the team’s Achilles heel (more like Achilles leg it’s so obvious).  So yes, you fantasy owners can gloat when Maroney scores early, but his inneptitude late is costing the team.
My grade:  D
Wide Receivers:
Some good plays from this group early, including a 58 yard score (Moss) and an 81 yard score (Aiken).  Things went [...]